Infection Control Article Flashcards
(40 cards)
Why is infection control important in veterinary clinics?
It prevents the spread of infectious diseases, ensures patient safety, and protects clinic staff and clients.
What is the most crucial activity in controlling nosocomial infections?
Hand hygiene, including hand-washing and disinfection.
When should hands be washed in a veterinary setting?
At the start and end of shifts, before and after eating, after handling animals, and before/after procedures.
At what temperature should uniforms be washed?
At a minimum of 60°C to ensure effective disinfection.
Why is a ‘bare below the elbow’ policy recommended?
To reduce the risk of contamination from jewelry and artificial nails, ensuring proper hand hygiene.
When should disposable gloves be worn?
During procedures involving contact with bodily fluids, infected wounds, and suspected contagious patients.
How often should disposable gloves be changed?
Between patients, when moving between body sites on the same patient, and when gloves become soiled.
Why should sterile gloves be worn during surgery?
To maintain asepsis and reduce the risk of infection during invasive procedures.
What types of PPE are recommended for high-risk patients?
Disposable gowns, shoe covers, masks, and eye protection for handling infectious or contagious patients.
What is the purpose of separate surgical attire?
To reduce cross-contamination and maintain a sterile environment in the operating area.
How should surgical procedures be organized based on cleanliness?
In order: clean, clean-contaminated, contaminated, and dirty.
Why is pre-operative bathing recommended for certain surgeries?
It removes skin scales and dirt, reducing the risk of infection, especially in orthopedic surgeries.
How should fur be clipped for surgery?
Using a clean, sharp, and lubricated blade to avoid skin damage and contamination.
Why should the surgical area be free of non-essential items?
To simplify cleaning, reduce contamination, and maintain sterility.
What are key characteristics of the ideal hospital environment?
Clean, easy to maintain, free of clutter, and with essential items stored in closed cabinets.
Why should kennels not face each other?
To reduce the transmission of airborne pathogens and minimize stress for animals.
What should the isolation area contain?
Separate bedding, food, bowls, and commonly used equipment to prevent cross-contamination.
Why are alcohol hand gels used for hand disinfection?
They reduce bacterial load on hands and should be at least 70-90% alcohol for effectiveness.
Why is it essential to classify patients by infection risk?
To determine appropriate housing, isolation needs, and prevent infection spread within the clinic.
What should be done after handling a high-risk patient?
Perform thorough hand hygiene, change gloves, and disinfect any equipment used.
How can infection risk be minimized in the hospital ward?
By regularly cleaning, using PPE, and having designated equipment for each area.
What is the role of barrier nursing?
To protect patients and staff by using strict hygiene measures when dealing with infectious diseases.
Why is a ‘deep clean’ important after patient discharge?
It removes any lingering pathogens, reducing the risk of infection for the next patient.
What is a ‘traffic-light’ system in infection control?
It classifies patients by infection risk: green (low risk), orange (moderate risk), and red (high risk).
